as I have seen in one autumnal face.
- John Donne
On a crisp autumn afternoon London natives, Jo and Andrew, arrived at Ballyfin Demense which is comfortably settled in the rural county of Laois, Ireland. Greeted by an awaiting staff they ascended the grand steps up to the front of the historic mansion that would soon host their most intimate and important celebrations with family and friends.
With great thought and care, and with the inspired vision of Pearl & Godiva, Jo and Andrew masterfully orchestrated each day to create the most intimate and memorable moments with those they care for most. Pearl & Godiva effortlessly married the wild nature of Ballyfin's sprawling estate to it's grandeur and elegance. A combination that so fittingly reflected the character and style of Jo and Andrew.
On their first day, Jo and Andrew welcomed their immediate family with a luncheon under the glass of Ballyfin's sun soaked Conservatory. That afternoon the couple collected eggs from the estate's hen house with Jo's youngest siblings before setting off on a romantic boat ride across the estate's enchanting lake.
To officially start the festivities, Jo and her father admired a grand view of the property from a hillside Water Cascade while sharing a special bottle of Chateau Margeaux together. Later, Andrew and the rest of the family would join them for an intimate dinner in the Ballyfin House. Later, the evening was capped with fireside cocktails and fairytales in the Library.
By the following afternoon, friends and extended family members began to trickle in from all over the world. They were shuttled up a windy dirt path to the Ballyfin Picnic House for a welcome picnic with expansive views of the valley below. Guests were treated to warm drinks and light faire as the lush Irish countryside twinkled shades of autumn amidst a foggy afternoon drizzle. Once full of cider, guests were escorted back to Ballyfin where an elegant evening of celebration was soon to take place...
Check back next week for Part Two of this Irish Wedding Adventure. You can also find it featured in the Fall Issue of Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine which is on stands now!
Creative Direction, Event Design & Styling: Pearl & Godiva // Venue and Catering: Ballyfin Demense, Co. Laois, Ireland // Florals: Hanako + Honey of a Thousand Flowers // Cake: BakeMyCake // Stationery: Mr. Boddinton + Day of Stationery & Calligraphy by Tara Jones // Make Up Artist: Sjaniel // Hair Stylist: Glen Cullen